Business & Management
EfD-Mak Holds 2nd Advisory Board Meeting: Charts Path for Growth
KAMPALA, Uganda | July 16, 2025. The Director of the Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University Centre (EfD-Mak), Prof. Edward Bbaale, outlined key achievements, challenges, and future plans during the 2nd Advisory Board Meeting held at Makerere University with members calling for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities.
The Advisory Board comprises 13 members drawn from Makerere University, government ministries and agencies, civil society, and the private sector. The Board’s role is to provide oversight and strategic guidance to EfD-Mak.
The EfD-Mak Centre is part of the global Environment for Development (EfD) network, comprising 15 research centers worldwide. It aims to promote evidence-based environmental policy through interdisciplinary research, academic training, and stakeholder engagement.
Addressing the board, Prof. Bbaale highlighted the center’s progress since its inception in 2019, including impactful policy engagement, capacity-building programs, and pioneering research in environmental economics.
“Our journey started in Vietnam when Makerere University was formally admitted into the EfD network. Since then, we’ve worked toward a mission of promoting inclusive growth and environmental sustainability,” said Prof. Bbaale.
Chaired by Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Makerere’s Academic Registrar and Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), the meeting also welcomed the new Deputy Director of EfD-Mak, Dr. Alice Turinawe, who replaces Prof. Johnny Mugisha.
Prof. Bbaale reported significant growth in research output, including over 150 publications and collaborations with national and international bodies such as the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the National Planning Authority, and the Ministry of Finance. The center is currently implementing projects on forestry, climate finance, and sustainable agriculture with partners across Uganda and the wider EfD global network.
The center’s interdisciplinary approach, drawing researchers from the Colleges of Business and Agricultural Sciences, was praised for its alignment with Makerere’s research strategy.
Notably, the center has launched a new Master’s in Economic Investment Modeling, designed to integrate climate variables and natural capital into macroeconomic frameworks. “This is a timely addition as the world looks for tools to understand the economic impact of climate change,” said Bbaale.
The center has intensified policy engagements through dialogues and training programs for government officials, focusing on environmental valuation, energy transitions, and macroeconomic modeling. The Inclusive Green Economy (IGE) program, funded by SIDA, has trained senior policymakers across East Africa on sustainable finance and green transition strategies.
EfD-Mak also played a role in shaping Uganda’s National Development Plan IV, with several fellows contributing to mainstreaming environmental concerns such as clean cooking and e-mobility.
“We were proud to be recognized as a runner-up globally for policy influence on clean cooking,” Bbaale noted, adding that Makerere’s visibility within the EfD network and international platforms continues to grow.
Despite the progress, Prof. Bbaale cautioned against over-reliance on a single funder, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), stating that diversified funding is essential for sustainability.
“While SIDA remains our main supporter, we recognize that this model is not sustainable in the long term,” he said, urging the board to support efforts to secure institutional status for the center within the university’s research policy framework.
For 2025, EfD-Mak will focus on climate-smart agriculture as a thematic policy dialogue and strengthen its footprint in local government engagement. A grant targeting environmental valuation at the local level and a new project on macroeconomic modeling for climate resilience are expected to launch.
Prof. Bbaale also cited a clean audit and positive external evaluation as indicators of the center’s strong governance and operational efficiency.
Quoting Pope Francis, he closed with a warning on the urgency of environmental action: “God always forgives. Men sometimes forgive. But nature never forgives.”
Board Chairperson Calls for Stronger Alignment with SDGs and Inclusivity in Research Programs
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Chairperson of the Advisory Board called for deeper integration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), inclusivity, and results-based reporting in the Centre’s research and academic programs.
Prof. Buyinza congratulated the EfD-Mak team led by Director Prof. Edward Bbaale on their notable achievements across academic training, research, and policy engagement.
“We want to congratulate you and your entire team for all the academic and impact achievements you have made,” Prof. Buyinza said. “You can clearly see the success at the academic training level, at the research level, and policy engagement. These are strong pillars of your program.”
However, the Chairperson emphasized the need to explicitly link the Centre’s work to Uganda’s national development agenda and global frameworks.
“What we want to see more of in future presentations is a clear connection to the Sustainable Development Goals,” he said. “Any investment going into research or human capital development must be traceable to the SDGs and the National Development Plan. This is essential, especially when responding to expectations from institutions like the National Planning Authority.”
Prof. Buyinza also urged the Centre to enhance inclusivity in its fellowship and research programs by targeting underrepresented groups, including students and researchers with special needs.
“You are doing well with your agenda and research priorities, but now it is time to move further toward inclusivity,” he said. “Let’s also see data on gender representation and the involvement of individuals with special needs. That would reflect equitable capacity development.”
He applauded the Centre’s results-based management approach and its focus on tangible outcomes. “I’m happy you did not dwell on challenges,” he added. “It shows maturity and strategic focus.”
Prof. Buyinza concluded by inviting reflections from other board members on areas where the Centre could improve, encouraging a collaborative approach to continuous development.
Board Members Call for Stronger Private Sector Links, Local Engagement, and Global Positioning for EfD-Mak Centre
Members of the Advisory Board for the Environment for Development Initiative praised the Centre’s achievements in research and policy influence but called for greater integration with the private sector, deeper engagement with local development initiatives, and enhanced visibility on the global stage.
Several board members shared constructive feedback following a presentation by the Centre’s Director, Prof. Edward Bbaale, outlining the Centre’s milestones and strategic direction.
Julius Byaruhanga representing the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), applauded the Centre for bridging the gap between academia and policymaking but urged for a similar approach with the private sector.
“Much of the research generated in academia doesn’t speak to private sector investment,” Byaruhanga said. “We need partnerships that show how climate and energy research can guide private sector financing, especially around energy efficiency.”
He proposed collaboration between EfD-Mak and PSFU in energy efficiency and policy advocacy, noting PSFU’s experience with several donor-funded projects and its role as the apex body influencing government policy on behalf of the business community.
Onesmus Mugyenyi, from acivil society organisation, emphasized the need for coordination among actors working on similar thematic issues, especially in policy advocacy.
“When we don’t coordinate, we duplicate efforts and end up with incomplete or stuck projects,” Mugyenyi said. “Mapping stakeholders and integrating practitioners into training would greatly enhance both policy impact and student learning.”
He also stressed sustainability and advised leveraging the Board’s networks to support resource diversification and long-term institutionalisation of the Centre’s initiatives.
Dr. Sam Mugume, representing the Ministry of Finance, recognized the Centre’s contribution to national capacity building, particularly in climate finance and macroeconomic modeling.
“You’re doing important work,” Mugume said. “But we now need to scale up and integrate your training and modeling capacity into broader macroeconomic planning for climate resilience, both nationally and at the African continental level.”
He noted the Ministry’s current engagement with a coalition of African finance ministers on climate action, urging the Centre to establish itself as a key academic partner in that process.
Apollo Kagwa, from the National Planning Authority (NPA), commended the Centre for its academic rigor but highlighted the need for grassroots relevance.
“EfD-Mak still operates at a high level,” Kagwa observed. “We need to bring its research down to address real issues in communities—how does it inform programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM)?”
He proposed the Centre tap into government consultancy opportunities and leverage alumni networks to generate internal revenue. Kagwa also encouraged participation in global climate policy spaces, such as the upcoming COP meeting in Brazil, and to develop capacity in climate economics.
Chairperson Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi welcomed the feedback and praised board members for offering actionable insights.
“These are excellent observations,” Prof. Buyinza said. “The next phase must involve deepening our links with the private sector, coordinating better with government and civil society actors, and preparing to expand our impact from local to global levels.”
Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer EfD Uganda.
Business & Management
Public Lecture on Research Collaboration across borders presents enormous opportunities to researchers, faculty and students
Delivering the public lecture, titled: Research Collaboration across borders, Prof. Ken Kamoche from Nottingham University, urged researchers at Makerere University, to undertake research that will strengthen and empower Africa, including fields that are ignored.
“My research has focused on those pertinent issues and fields that are always ignored. I call upon you to re-consider undertaking research in the fields of knowledge management, innovations, indigenous knowledge, identity, artificial intelligence (AI) and Africa at large,” said Prof. Kamoche.
Acknowledging that he had undertaken tremendous research and publication in human resource management and organizational studies, Prof. Kamoche testified that he took a paradigm shift to focus on the values that underpin the organizational behaviour.
Held at Makerere University Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium on 3rd March 2026, the public lecture attracted faculty from Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Uganda Christian University, administrators, researchers, and students. Before heading to the public lecture, Prof. Kamoche held a discipline-specific meeting with academic staff at the School of Business under the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) at Makerere University.
The Africa Research Group: Fostering Global Scholarly Engagement and Capacity Building
Prof. Kamoche highlighted the establishment of the Africa Research Group to address the gap in engagement between scholars in Africa and their counterparts in Europe, Asia, and North America.
Established in 2012, the Africa Research Group at Nottingham University Business School provides a platform to spur knowledge transfer across disciplines and continents.
“I am here to inspire you to do research. If you are looking for a platform, I invite you to utilize the Africa Research Group. We have been able to give researchers from Africa a voice. We welcome research students at all levels,” Prof. Kamoche said.
He pointed out that the Africa Research Group provides mentorship to postgraduate and early-career researchers, supports doctoral supervision, joint publications, and funding applications. Prof. Kamoche encouraged students and faculty members to participate in future activities and pursue collaborative research opportunities.
What inspires Prof. Kamoche?
Responding to a question from the students who admired his commitment to research, publication, authorship, Prof. Kamoche said: “The desire to make a difference and share knowledge with others, and make an impact.”
Research collaboration
During the public lecture, Dr. Christopher Muganga, Dr. Seperia Wanyama, and Dr. Anthony Tibaingana from the School of Business, and Dr. John Mushomi from the School of Statistics and Planning, emphasized the importance of research and collaboration in the transformation of countries and societies in general. The members of faculty stressed the importance of knowledge sharing and exchange of ideas, authorship and publication, mentorship, joint research undertakings and networking.
Global academic collaboration
Dr. Seperia Wanyama highlighted the significance of the public lecture in creating opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the collective advancement of academic and societal understanding.
“The event serves as a platform for fostering diversity in academia, bringing together researchers, students, and administrators to engage in shared learning,” he said.
He applauded Prof. Ken Kamoche for his distinguished contributions global academic collaboration and research. He credited Prof. Kamoche for his willingness to share valuable insights on research collaboration across borders. He urged participants to remain active and engaged throughout the session.
Talent Management and Cross-Continental Collaboration
Prof. Kamoche commended Makerere University for hosting him, reflecting on the golden opportunity to engage with students, faculty, and researchers. He shared insights from his extensive academic journey, research contributions, and initiatives to strengthen collaboration across Africa, Asia, and the West.
Reflecting on talent management and organizational leadership, Prof. Kamoche noted that he has maintained a strong focus on leveraging his international experiences to foster cross-continental academic collaborations and address challenges relevant to both African and global contexts.
Focusing on talent management, Prof. Kamoche shared insights from his extensive research, explaining how organizations often take an “exclusive” approach, concentrating resources on a small group of high-performing individuals seen as the main drivers of value. He also highlighted a different perspective: the “inclusive” approach, which recognizes that every employee has unique skills that can contribute to the organization’s success.
Using recent research in Kenya’s banking sector, published in the South African Journal of Human Resource Management, Prof. Kamoche illustrated how talent management connects closely with innovation, employee engagement, and confidence. His findings indicated that while high performers are essential, sustainable success comes from balancing focus on star performers with developing the wider workforce.
Prof. Kamoche reflected on earlier studies conducted in Hong Kong, which examined the experiences of employees identified as “high potential.” He noted that being labeled talented can be a double-edged sword, creating pressure, high expectations, and sometimes causing employees to rethink their career priorities over time.
Comparative Insights on Asian Management and Strategic African Partnerships
Prof. Kamoche shared insights from his comparative research on Asian management practices, tracing his academic interest in Asia back to his graduate studies at Oxford. There, he examined Japanese management systems at a time when Japan’s economic model was admired worldwide. Through interviews with senior human resource executives in major Japanese corporations, he sought to understand the foundations of their organizational success.
Prof. Kamoche observed that while African countries are familiar with Western business systems, their understanding of Asian management philosophies remains limited. His research highlighted key differences in operational practices, particularly in areas such as time management and efficiency.
“Some Chinese infrastructure projects run continuously, reflecting a highly results-driven approach,” he noted. He acknowledged challenges raised by local employees regarding cultural differences, labor practices, and the need for more equitable engagement.
Prof. Kamoche emphasized that Chinese investment in Africa is far from uniform, encompassing state-owned enterprises, private firms, and long-term individual entrepreneurs. “African countries must strategically leverage these partnerships to maximize both economic and social benefits while protecting local interests,” he argued.
Dr. Anthony Tibaingana commends Prof. Kamoche’s Scholarly Impact
The Acting Dean of the School of Business, Dr. Anthony Tibaingana, lauded Prof. Kamoche for delivering an insightful lecture at Makerere University, describing the presentation as an exceptional exposition of knowledge and scholarship.
Dr. Tibaingana highlighted the significance of Prof. Kamoche’s return to Africa, describing it as a meaningful reconnection with his roots and a contribution to the continent’s intellectual growth.
The Acting Dean commended the depth of the presentation, particularly its insights into human resource management, leadership, and talent development. He emphasized that Africa, with its youthful population, presents both opportunity and responsibility for scholars to generate research-based solutions to the continent’s challenges.
He underscored the need for academia to address pressing issues such as leadership gaps, institutional weaknesses, and talent retention within universities and organizations.
Dr. Tibaingana encouraged faculty and students to continue engaging through research networks and ongoing conversations facilitated by the Africa Research Group at Nottingham University Business School.
He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to teaching, research, and community outreach, noting that such engagements contribute to long-term academic partnerships and future institutional growth.
Moderated by Dr. Christopher Muganga from the School of Business, the public lecture concluded with the presentation of Makerere University Souvenirs to Prof. Kamoche and networking engagements with students.
Monica Meeme contributed to this story as a Guest Writer
Business & Management
Thirty Public Officers Certified in Integrated Regulatory Cost-Benefit Analysis
Thirty public officers from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have successfully completed a two-week intensive training in Integrated Regulatory Cost-Benefit Analysis (IRCBA), culminating in the award of certificates at a closing ceremony held on 27th February 2026 at the Pearl on the Nile Hotel in Jinja.
The training was jointly organized by the Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence at Makerere University and the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED), in collaboration with the Infrastructure and Social Services Department (ISSD) and the National Planning Authority (NPA). It focused on operationalizing the Revised Guidelines for the Issuance of Certificates of Financial Implication (CFIs), which came into effect on 1st July 2025.
A Strategic Reform for Fiscal Credibility
In closing remarks delivered on by Commissioner Paul Patrick Mwanja behalf of the Permanent Secretary/Secretary to the Treasury, participants were commended for undertaking the training during a demanding budget cycle, when many MDAs are simultaneously preparing the FY 2026/27 Budget, executing the FY 2025/26 Budget, and implementing the National Development Plan IV and the Tenfold Growth Strategy.
The PS/ST emphasized that the revised Guidelines mark a significant shift toward a more transparent, data-driven, consultative, and analytically rigorous approach to evaluating policy and legislative proposals. Participants were equipped to assess fiscal implications, evaluate economic and socio-economic impacts, analyze distributional effects, and address uncertainty using structured analytical tools.
They were reminded that training alone is not sufficient, the real test lies in consistent application. As members of the third cohort, they were challenged to serve as reform ambassadors, championing evidence-based policymaking and strengthening analytical standards across government.
Bridging Academia and Public Service
Delivering the official closing remarks, the Director of the PIM Centre of Excellence, Prof. Edward Bbaale, commended participants for their active engagement and unwavering commitment throughout the training.
He described the programme as both timely and strategic, designed to equip officers with practical tools to prepare robust Statements of Financial Implication (SFIs) that support credible issuance of CFIs. He noted that strong financial analysis enhances fiscal discipline, policy coherence, and the overall quality of legislation and public policy in Uganda.
Prof. Bbaale underscored the longstanding partnership between Makerere University and the Ministry of Finance, highlighting how it continues to bridge academia and public service by combining analytical rigor with practical policy experience. He emphasized that the collaborative model — bringing together faculty from the College of Business and Management Sciences and practitioners from Government, reflects the core vision of the PIM Centre of Excellence: strengthening national systems through evidence-based policymaking.
During the two weeks, participants gained hands-on experience in applying cost-benefit analysis across four critical dimensions: budgetary analysis, socio-economic analysis, distributive impacts, and risk assessment. Prof. Bbaale encouraged them to return to their institutions as agents of transformation, improving evaluation frameworks, strengthening regulatory decisions, and ensuring that public interventions deliver value for money and long-term development impact.
He also reaffirmed the Centre’s broader mandate beyond training, noting its recent support to the revision of Development Committee Guidelines, assessment of public investment performance since NDP I, and hosting of the Second Public Investment Management Conference in August 2025.”
Building from “Zero Kilometre”
Earlier, the Manager of the PIM Centre of Excellence highlighted the practical approach adopted during the training. Participants began with blank Excel sheets and built analytical models from scratch, likened to the engineering concept of starting at “zero kilometre,” where construction begins from the very starting point and progresses step by step.
The interactive sessions enabled participants from diverse disciplines, including policy analysts, planners and statisticians, to interrogate assumptions, refine costing approaches, and debate implementation and enforcement frameworks. Their sector-specific insights enriched the learning process and strengthened the analytical models developed.
The Manager noted that excellence is not about knowing everything, but about bringing together the right expertise. Facilitators from MoFPED, NPA, the Office of the President, and Makerere University ensured that theory remained grounded in practical government realities.
Participants Applaud Practical and Engaging Sessions
Speaking on behalf of the cohort, a participant described the training as highly engaging and transformative. The combination of theory and practical application, coupled with patient facilitation, allowed officers from varied professional backgrounds to learn from one another.
The participant highlighted the final day’s discussions as the most impactful, expressing confidence that the knowledge gained would enhance policy analysis and improve the quality of programmes and projects across MDAs.
Certificates Awarded
The ceremony concluded with the award of certificates to all 30 participants in recognition of their successful completion of the IRCBA training. The certification marks another milestone in Government’s effort to build a critical mass of experts capable of institutionalizing rigorous financial and economic analysis in public policy processes.
As the workshop was formally declared closed, participants were encouraged to apply their newly acquired skills consistently, mentor colleagues, and contribute to strengthening fiscal governance across Government.
The PIM Centre of Excellence reaffirmed its commitment to continuous research, policy advisory support, and capacity building as Uganda advances toward more credible, transparent, and sustainable public decision-making.
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